Only two levels of file verification in Secretariat from now onwards; decision approved by Cabinet

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Files will now be settled faster in Secretariat. The Cabinet on Wednesday has approved a recommendation that only two tiers should examine the files.

The decision has been taken to reduce the file verification levels of officers into two tiers from Under Secretary to Additional Secretary. The decision was based on the recommendation of the Administrative Reforms Commission and subsequent discussions. The Secretariat receives files related to 46 departments.

In departments other than Public Administration, a file examined by under secretary will reach in Secretary level only after verification by Deputy Secretary, Joint Secretary, Additional Secretary and Special Secretary if any. This can be avoided. After under secretary's verification, only one should examine the file.

The Secretaries of the respective Departments can decide about the two levels of verification after consulting with the Ministers of the Departments. Thus piling of files can be avoided and it will be settled faster. Employees' organizations are worried that many posts will be lost in the future due to decrease in levels of file verification.